By Microsoft reporter 18 February, 2021 The speed and ease we can get around a city have a significant bearing on those who live and work there: impacting our livelihoods, wellbeing and quality of life. Mobility is vital to the successful functioning of cities. Innovation enabled by a combination of digital technology and collaboration between city government, transport providers and mobility companies will help deliver the solutions needed, says Heiko Huettel, Microsoft EMEAâs automotive lead. Mobility is becoming a smart platform, powered by connectivity, real-time data and AI. Cities are growing in size and importance In many places around the world traffic has been at all-time lows since the beginning of the pandemic, according to the latest TomTom Traffic Index, with one-fifth (19%) less congestion globallyâ and congestion down by average 26% during rush hour (Europe: 24%; North America: 40%; Asia 11%â). But the roads wonât stay so quiet for long. âRalf-Peter Schäfer, TomTomâs vice president of traffic and travel, believes it will likely rebound.